In this episode, Mary welcomes Hannah Hembree Bell, an award-winning Austin family law attorney, mom of four, and founder and CEO of one of the fastest-growing family law firms in the United States, Hembree Bell Law.

Hannah shares her deeply personal journey of losing custody and financial ground in her own divorce. She transformed those hard-won lessons into a national community helping women prepare wisely for one of life's most disruptive transitions.

Hannah delivers raw, practical wisdom about preparing strategically, protecting yourself legally and emotionally. Her message is clear: you don't have to live a life that sucks, and hope is not a strategy—action is.

Key Points Covered:

•  Menopause, a catalyst or the cause: A look at research, surveys and statistics.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis of Leaving vs. Staying: Using the "scale of justice" metaphor.
• The Derivative Identity Trap: How women define themselves through relationships rather than core characteristics (brave, strong, kind, generous). 
• The Gray Divorce phenomenon: Women often spend 5-10 years considering divorce before taking action.
• Don't Act from Activation: Critical advice to check hormone levels, thyroid function, and overall health before making permanent decisions.

Connect

• Hembree Bell Law Firm: https://hembrebell.com 
• Follow Hannah on social media: @HannahHembreeBell (Instagram, TikTok)
• My Confident Divorce Framework (FREE course): https://myconfidentdivorce.com 

Resources:

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Meet the host, Mary, a Licensed Menopause Champion, certified Menopause Doula, and Women’s Coaching Specialist supporting women - peri to post.

Mary is also a corporate educator, helping forward-thinking organizations foster a menopause-friendly workplace and design policies and accommodations for employees. Click to learn more https://emmeellecoaching.com/menopauseatwork

Turn your menopause transition into a transformation with the Menopause Intelligence Course (MQ), an 8-module, self-paced learning experience, empowering you to take agency over your health and make informed decisions with your healthcare team. 

Connect: 

• Instagram @menopausedisruptorpodcast
• LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/maryhelenlee/

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Disclaimer: Information shared is for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional.